As a runner I have no pedigree, had no coaching, no finesse and no technique but what I do have is stubbornness and an ability to adapt to the terrain. These characteristics helped me conquer the mountain like sand dunes in the extreme temperatures. This was a difficult day for competitors with many suffering exhaustion, heat stroke, stories of cardiac arrests and the worst news of all… a death. This tragic event triggered the thoughts “Is it worth it?” and “Why am I actually here?” but then I started to focus and think more clearly through the next and longest stage of the marathon of what an achievement it would be complete this incredible challenge.
In the 50 degrees heat I switched between thinking I can do this and wobbly moments when I thought I could not but then I began to think about how I have come through the worst and darkest times of my life and remembering that there has always been a light at the end of the tunnel.
I continued to put one foot in front of another until I got to the finish line having completed the 156 mile journey through the Moroccan desert.
The Marathon turned out to be more than just the race.
I met so many people from different walks of life and listened to their background stories and experiences in life. I was able to have a laugh and smile and it took me back to the time when I first started running and sharing experiences with friends and team mates.
The race had drawn me out of the thoughts of my own mind and I was enjoying the camaraderie I got from my tent mates as well as the encouragement we all gave each other in reaching the shared goal of crossing the finish line. Thanks to my wife and family for supporting me always.